“I remain dedicated to this work and to fighting against educational inequities because I was a child with so much potential plagued by a difficult home life. If it had not been for the teachers, school counselors, and education non-profits that made me believe in a future that was different than the poverty and trauma I was experiencing, I would have fallen victim to cycles that have systematically plagued the Black community. I understand firsthand the powers of representation and what access can inspire in someone. I believe in the power and brilliance that exists in communities of color that have historically been pushed aside and I hope to uplift, create space, and reshape the world.”

• Celena began her career in education as a Teach for America corps member in Jacksonville, FL where she taught 8th grade English.
• After 5 years of teaching, she joined a charter school in D.C. as their Recruitment Manager leading the recruitment process for vice principals, teachers, and other school staff.
• She holds a Master’s degree in Secondary Education from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Morgan State University.

Celena is a yoga loving, DMV-native living in Charlotte, NC with her sassy cat, Maya Angelou. At home, she loves young adult fiction, crime tv, all things natural hair, and cooking vegan meals. Outside, you can find her enjoying a really good brunch, exploring nature, and studying culture through all types of art.